PS3 Media Server is a transcoding media server that works with more than just the PS3. it is also cross platform, working on Windows, Linux or Mac.
Tversity is another one. It works better with other devices if you don't need advanced subtitle support.

Autohotkey is awesome, i have my numpad configured as an app launcher. It totally awes people to press buttons and launch programs. I have FF, chrome, steam, notepa++, trilliam, RDC, picasa, ccleaner on /auto, only on numpads.

I reccomend also hamachi for remote control. So easy to use. Is like being at home network. I usually organize my files from work. Mostly porn video names and tags lmao

For media codecs and players, you should add K-Lite. It comes in a X64 version and 32bit. For 64 bit systems, you install the 64 client, then the 32 bit version you choose. Also includes latest Media player calssic.

Mediaplayer - Songbird. http://getsongbird.com/
Songbird can play a large variety of formats. Ithas all kinds of plugins. One for example looks at your artists and will tell you if concerts are in the area. If you do want to try this program, install the EQ presets plugin after. My music was flat sounding untill i installed that. It was my replacement for iTunes once I started getting flac music.

Converter: Mediacoder http://www.mediacoderhq.com/
I do find this hard to use if I dont use a wizard or one of the UI apps for converting stuff. But its support for formats is wide and far.